Arrow rest device

ABSTRACT

An arrow rest device is disclosed. The example arrow rest device includes A mounting bracket for attachment to a bow riser. The example arrow rest device also includes a geometrically shaped surface of the mounting bracket. The example arrow rest device also includes a coupler having a mating attachment surface for connecting with the geometrically shaped surface of the mounting bracket. The example arrow rest device also includes an accessory for attachment to the coupler, and an opening formed in the accessory. The example arrow rest device also includes a shaft received through the opening formed in the accessory. The shaft is rotatable in the opening formed in the accessory. The shaft has a first end to accommodate an arrow launcher, and a second end to attach to a cord.

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application is a continuation-in-part (CIP) of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/806,011 filed Jun. 8, 2022 for “Arrow Rest Device” of Andrew W. Munell, Devin Hall, and John Vitera, which claims the priority filing benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/202,397 filed Jun. 9, 2021 for “Arrow Rest Device” of Andrew W. Munsell, Devin Hall and John Vitera, each hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety as though fully set forth herein.

BACKGROUND

The archery industry has been standardized on interfaces for mounting accessories to a bow riser as described by the Archery Manufacturer's Organization (AMO) standards. Threaded holes of varying sizes on vertical surfaces of a bow riser enable sighting devices, arrow rests, quivers, and stabilizers alike to be mounted to the bow riser in a variety of orientations. In the case of the arrow rest, archery sights and quivers, these standard holes are located on the outward vertical plane of the bow riser and are orthogonal to the plane of the down range target hen the bow is aimed at the target. This places the accessary laterally some distance away from the center line and center of gravity (CoG) of the bow assembly. This approach for mounting accessories laterally from the centerline or center gravity of the bow generates an undesired imbalance.

Throughout the history of modern archery, many instantiations of accessories have been mounted to the forward and aft vertical surfaces of a bow riser in the pursuit of achieving optimum balance and stability. Certain types of accessories (e.g. arrow rests and sights) are extremely sensitive to small changes in position and the associated impact on accuracy. Having the ability to micro-adjust these accessories and to interchange elements of each allows the user to optimize the balance of their shooting system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an example limb actuated configuration archery bow system, shown at rest with the cord under tension.

FIG. 2 is an example archery bow system of FIG. 1 , shown drawn back into a shooting position with the cord not under tension.

FIG. 3 is an isometric view and corresponding side view of an example mounting bracket.

FIG. 4 shows front isometric views of example mounting brackets.

FIG. 5 shows rear isometric views of example mounting brackets.

FIG. 6 shows an example polygon shaped mount, both attached and unattached to a bow riser.

FIGS. 7-10 are perspective views of an example mounting bracket with polygon shaped mount.

FIG. 11 are different top perspective views of the example mounting bracket attached to the coupler mount illustrating various adjustments.

FIGS. 12 and 13 are perspective views of the example polygon shaped mount and a T-shaped coupler having a separate clamp.

FIGS. 14 and 15 are perspective views of the polygon shaped mount and T-shaped coupler mounted to a bow system.

FIGS. 16-18 are perspective views of the polygon shaped mount and T-shaped coupler shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 with an intermediate block.

FIGS. 19-20 are perspective views of the T-shaped coupler illustrating mounting features.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the polygon shaped mount, T-shaped coupler and intermediated block illustrating a threaded opening to apply a clamping force.

FIGS. 22-23 are perspective views of a two-piece dovetailed intermediate block with accessory.

FIG. 24 are perspective views of the mounting bracket and coupler illustrating a two-piece intermediate block.

FIG. 25 is a side view of the mounting bracket and coupler illustrating a microtune adjustment.

FIG. 26 further illustrate the microtune adjustment as part of the T-shaped coupler.

FIG. 27 illustrates the features of the microtune peg/protrusion.

FIG. 28 illustrates rotational coupling motion for attaching a T-shaped coupler to the polygon shaped mount with microtune peg and separate clamp.

FIGS. 29-32 illustrate multiple vertical mounting surfaces and a microtune peg receiving feature machined into the bow riser.

FIGS. 33-34 illustrate implementation of the polygon shaped mount and T-shaped coupler with a cord lever arm assembly.

FIG. 35 illustrates the cord lever arm assembly without a clamp feature.

FIGS. 36-37 illustrate cross section views of a microtune with peg and ball detent feature.

FIG. 38 illustrates the rotating shaft of the accessory.

FIG. 39 illustrates adjustable headless set screws.

FIG. 40 is a forward looking aft view of the arrow rest assembly with lever arm assembly in the DOWN position.

FIG. 41 illustrates shaft rotation and headless set screw interfaces in the UP and DOWN positions.

FIG. 42 illustrates lateral left/right adjustment positioning.

FIG. 43 illustrates angle reference indicators.

FIG. 44 illustrates an arrow rest assembly with polygon shaped mount, T-shaped coupler, and integrated accessory as part of the intermediate block.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An arrow rest device is disclosed that is mountable to a geometrically shaped mounting bracket that is vertically aligned to an aft facing (side closest to the archer) vertical plane of a bow riser when the bow is held for aiming at a target.

The example arrow rest device includes a geometrically shaped mounting bracket. The example arrow rest device may also include a coupler mount for connecting to the geometrically shaped mounting bracket. The example arrow rest device may also include a base of the coupler mount. The base has a parallel clamp with two components, and an integral positioning mechanism with movable coupling protrusion that does not require disassembly to be coupled to the geometrically shaped mounting bracket. The clamping force inserts the coupling mechanism protrusion between the two components, thereby coupling them together.

The example arrow rest device may also include a plank member that is perpendicular to the base for lateral mounting of an intermediate block that allows the accessory to be positioned forward. This lateral mounting configuration also enables the accessory to be interchangeable with another accessory configured for different arrow configuration for the same bow system.

Before continuing, it is noted that as used herein, the terms “includes” and “including” mean, but is not limited to, “includes” or “including” and “includes at least” or “including at least.” The term “based on” means “based on” and “based at least in part on.”

It is also noted that the examples described herein are provided for purposes of illustration, and are not intended to be limiting. Other devices and/or device configurations may be utilized to carry out the operations described herein.

The operations shown and described herein are provided to illustrate example implementations. It is noted that the operations are not limited to the ordering shown. Still other operations may also be implemented.

An example arrow rest device includes several components that all work together to provide several functions. The components provide the ability to mount an arrow rest to any shape assumed as part of the aft portion of an archery bow riser. The term “aft” is defined to be any surface whose normal vector has a scalar value that is substantially parallel to the line of sight to the target. The components support an arrow prior to and through the launching of the arrow. The components provide arrow stabilizing devices (e.g., fletchings, vanes, other) clearance with no interference between any element of the arrow rest and the arrow and its components. The components provide the ability to adjust the rest relative to the polygon shaped mount to optimize the arrow rest position relative to the optimum launch position of the arrow, relative to the geometric attributes of the archery bow system in the, a) lateral (L-R, R-L), b) vertical (up-down, down-up), c) forward (toward the target), d) aft (toward the archer). The components provide the ability to reconfigure the arrow rest assembly to optimum arrow position by exchanging a portion of the arrow rest assembly to accommodate the difference of arrow characteristics (e.g., diameter, spine or stiffness, length). The components provide a physical boundary from which the arrow is located within the functional proximity of the arrow rest (also referred to as a containment bracket). The components provide the ability for quick interchangeability between any two arrow rest assemblies configured for different arrow types to be used on the same bow system.

FIG. 1 is an example limb actuated configuration archery bow system 10, shown at rest with the rest activation cord 12 under tension when the drawstring 14 is relaxed. FIG. 2 is the example archery bow system 10 of FIG. 1 , shown with the drawstring 14 at full draw and the rest activation cord 12 released from tension.

An example archery bow system 10 includes a bow limb 15 and bow riser 16. The bow riser 16 may be provided in any of a variety of shapes and thicknesses to accommodate aesthetics, structural integrity and the function of mounting accessories. The aft end surface(s) of the bow riser 16 (aft direction illustrated by arrow 18; forward direction 19 illustrated by arrow 1) can be any of a variety of shapes. By way of illustration, shapes may include but are not limited to flat and vertical/straight, flat and curved (e.g., not vertical or straight), compound (curved or beveled), and vertical/straight or compound and curved. The ability to adjust an arrow rest 3 and launcher 89 purely in the vertical plane is critical to optimizing the location and tune of the bow system 10 relative to launching an arrow 1.

FIG. 3 is an isometric view and corresponding side view of an example geometrically (e.g., polygon, circular) shaped mount 20. The mount 20 has a polygon shape. Polygon shaped brackets may be provided for mounting accessories to a flat surface of the arrow rest 3.

Even in the event that the bow riser 16 aft surface 18 is not vertical and flat, the mounting bracket 20 disclosed herein provides such an interface. The mounting bracket may have any suitable shape. See FIGS. 4 and 5 for purposes of illustration. FIG. 4 shows front isometric views of example mounting brackets 21, 22, and 23. FIG. 5 shows rear isometric views of the example mounting brackets 21, 22, and 23.

The geometrically shaped mount (hereinafter generally referred to as the mounting bracket 20) may include a microtune peg receiving feature 26 discussed in more detail below. The mounting bracket 20 may also include mounting through-holes 24 for attaching the mounting bracket 20 to the bow riser 16.

The mounting bracket 20 may be mounted to a bow riser 16 of the archery bow system 10. FIG. 6 shows an example mounting bracket 20 both in an unattached configuration, and in a configuration wherein the mounting bracket 20 is attached to a bow riser 16.

FIGS. 7-10 are perspective views of an example mounting bracket 20 with riser mount 30. In an example, the riser mount 30 has a surface 37 referenced to the outward bow riser vertical plane. The riser mount 30 may also include at least one receiving positioning feature (e.g., vertical pairs 35 a, 35 b). The receiving positioning feature(s) 35 a, 35 b are configured to receive mating alignment features 25 a, 25 b in the mounting bracket 20. The example mounting bracket 20 may be fine adjusted by moving the feature(s) 35 a, 35 b of the coupler mount 30 relative to the features 25 a, 25 b in the mounting bracket 20.

The geometrically shaped mount 20 can be attached to any surface of the bow riser. The surface can be (but is not limited to) forward, aft, left, right vertical, horizontal, top, bottom, or any surface that has a normal vector that includes one of the directions.

FIG. 11 are different top perspective views of the example mounting bracket 20 attached to the riser mount 30 illustrating various adjustments 31, 32, and 33. The adjustment 31 shows the polygon shaped mount position for a bow riser width of about 0.800″ to about 0.910″. The adjustment 32 shows the dovetail mount position for a bow riser width of about 0.700″ to about 0.800″. The adjustment 33 shows the dovetail mount position for a bow riser width of about 0.600″ to about 0.700″.

The polygon shaped mount when mounted to the aft surface of the bow riser can be precisely located for a predetermined distance from the vertical lateral surface of the inner-bow riser plane (known as the center-shot distance), which is usually between 13/16″ to ⅞″. The center of the arrow rest assembly (e.g., the center of the “V” of the arrow launcher 89) can be precisely achieved by locating the mounting holes for the geometrically shaped mount 20 at a predetermined distance (between about 0.25″ and 0.600″) from the datum surface being the inner-bow riser vertical surface (Datum A), also known as the sight window.

FIGS. 12 and 13 are perspective views of the example polygon shaped mount 20 and a rest coupler or coupler mount 40. In this example, the coupler mount 40 is shown having a separate clamp 41 and an intermediate block 42. The intermediate block 42 is shown with a separate clamp 43 and alignment protrusion 44 for positioning an accessory 45.

FIGS. 14 and 15 are perspective views of the mounting bracket 20 and coupler 40 with separate clamp 41 mounted to an aft surface 18 or plane of the bow riser 16. The Berger hole 17 is seen on bow riser 16 in FIG. 14 . Also seen in FIG. 14 is the plank 50 of the coupler 40. Multiple co-linear alignment surfaces 52 of the coupler 40 are also visible in FIG. 14 . Threaded fasteners 54 a, 54 b of the coupler 40 are visible in FIG. 15 . FIG. 15 also illustrates clamping force F1, clamping force F2, clamping force F3, and clamping force F4. The force F4 is orthogonal to the bow riser 16 mounting surface to press the coupler protrusion 82 into the geometrically shaped mount 20 receiving feature 26 for a friction or interference fit.

FIGS. 16-18 are perspective views of the mounting bracket 20 and coupler 40 with separate clamp 41 shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 and having the intermediate block 42 with separate clamp 43. A threaded extruded boss feature 56 is also visible in FIGS. 16-18 .

FIGS. 19-20 are perspective views of the coupler 40 illustrating mounting features, including the separate coupler clamp 41, plank 50 and protrusions with edges and guide surfaces 52. Mounting features 56 for the top containment bracket 200 are shown in FIG. 19 . Multiple intersecting channels 58 are also visible in the side view shown in FIG. 19 and FIG. 20 . A through hole or slot 60 for mounting a fastener is visible in FIG. 20 . FIG. 21 are side views of the coupler 40 and intermediate block 42, illustrating a threaded opening 62 to apply a clamping force to mount the intermediate block 42 to the coupler 40.

FIGS. 22-24 shows perspective views of the coupler 40, illustrating a two-piece intermediate block 70 a, 70 b having a dovetail feature 74 a and 74 b. FIG. 23 shows the intermediate block 70 a having a plank axis 72 b orthogonal to the forward aft axis 72 a of the plank 50. Dovetail feature 74 b engages with mating dovetail feature 76 of a carriage 78 for accessory 45.

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional side view of the mounting bracket 20 and coupler 40, illustrating a microtune adjustment. FIGS. 26-27 further illustrate the microtune adjustment. The microtune adjustment may be accomplished with threaded axial member 80 by rotating knob 81. Peg 82 is better seen in FIG. 27 having a threaded opening or hole 83 for the threaded drive mechanism 80. Peg 82 includes a protruding surface 84, a chamfer 85, and a slot 86. The chamfer 85 is for rotatable installation.

FIG. 28 illustrates attaching a coupler 40 to the polygon shaped mount 20 with a microtune peg 82 as part of the microtune mechanism and separate clamp 41. The mount 20 shown is a polygon shaped mount on an L-shaped bracket 30 on the bow riser 16. The views show the need for the chamfer feature on peg 82 to enable the T-shaped coupler 40 and clamp 41 with integral microtune mechanism with peg 82 to be rotationally coupled to the receiving hole 26 or 24 in the polygon shaped mount 20.

FIGS. 29-32 illustrate multiple vertical mounting surfaces 90 and microtune peg receiving feature 87 machined into the bow riser 16. FIG. 30 shows a top view of the bow riser 16. It is noted that more than one microtune peg receiving feature 87 may be provided. Multiple attachment features 90 may be provided in the bow riser 16 for the fastener. Multiple vertical mounting surfaces with 90 degree or greater angles may be machined into the bow riser 16. In the example shown, a rotating shaft with launcher accessory 89 is illustrated.

FIGS. 33-35 illustrate implementation of the mounting bracket and coupler with a cord accessory 92. In FIG. 34 , the lever arm assembly 92 is shown having a lever arm 93, looped cord 94, lever arm clamp 95 and clamp fastener 96. The cord accessory clamp 99 that the two-piece lever arm assembly replaces is shown assembled in FIG. 35 .

FIGS. 36-37 illustrate an accessory carriage 100 attached to the intermediate block 42 and coupler 40. A body lateral locking fastener 102 is shown attached to the intermediate block 42. FIG. 37 illustrates a cross-sectional view of FIG. 36 , and shows a detent spring compression device 104 with detent spring 106, and detent sphere or ball 108. Multiple receiving detent features 110 are also illustrated in the intermediate block 42.

FIGS. 38-40 illustrate the rotating shaft 120 of accessory 45 having a geometric or other polygon (e.g., octagon) shaped shaft end 122, and multiple compound surfaces 124 that interface with it for rotation/angle integral features provided by the carriage 100. The rotating shaft 126 of set screws 120 a and 120 b are seen assembled in FIG. 39 . The headless set screw 120 a sets the launcher UP angle of the arrow rest body. Another headless set screw position 120 b sets the launcher in the DOWN angle. Corresponding spherical locking devices 128 a, 128 b are also seen in FIG. 39 . FIG. 40 shows a 2-piece lever arm 130 and a knurled spring knob 132. The angled launcher 134 accommodates the bow riser 16 geometry.

FIGS. 41-42 illustrate shaft rotation. On the left side of FIG. 41 , the shaft is shown rotated to the UP position so that the shaft surface and set screw interfere at 140. On the right side of FIG. 41 , the shaft is rotated to the DOWN position, and the shaft surface and set screw interfere at 142. FIG. 42 shows the lateral position range of the accessory in the DOWN position relative to Datum A.

FIG. 43 illustrates ambidextrous launcher angle tools 150. The angle tools include numeric angle reference indicators 154 and mechanical coupling features that match the arrow rest body geometric features. The right hand tool 150 is shown attached on the arrow rest on the right side of FIG. 43 , and is shown in the 30 degree position.

FIG. 44 illustrates an arrow rest assembly 162 with intermediate block 160 with integrated accessory 56.

In use, the arrow rest is mounted to the polygon shaped mount 20 with a vertical base clamp member or coupler 40 having a perpendicular plank member 50. The clamp mechanism 40 and 41 has two opposing members with grooves on each inner surface. The clamping force is applied by a minimum of one threaded fastener. The clamping force is applied to four (4) surfaces for the most stable and repeatable interface. The coupler 40 has an integral microtune adjustment mechanism coupled to the polygon shaped mount 20 with a peg-like element 82. The peg-like element 82 couples the base of the coupler 40 to the polygon shaped mount 20. The coupler 40 and the polygon shaped mount 20 move relative to each other. The peg 82 translates position linearly in a channel 88 of the base of the coupler through the rotation of the drive mechanism 80 coupled to the peg 82. The channel 88 limits the travel of the peg coupled to the polygon mount. The clamp system 41 has to be relieved when adjusting the vertical position of the rest with the microtune mechanism further described herein.

The perpendicular plank or rail member 50 has multiple alignment surfaces (planar or compound) 52 that are mostly parallel to the forward-aft axis 72 a of the plank for coupling an intermediate block 42 that accommodates an accessory 45 (e.g., arrow rest, measurement tool, sight). The alignment surfaces 52 have two laterally disposed rail edges, the main axis being substantially perpendicular to the coupler vertical base axis. The rail edges 52 protrude from a portion of the plank where they can be provided with one or more optional channel(s) for linear positioning of the intermediate block in the forward (toward the target) or aft (away from the target) directions. The adjacent alignment surfaces of the plank can be less than 90° relative to each other, forming channels described as dovetails; or greater than or equal to 90° similar to the Picatinny rail standard.

The intermediate block may include a clamping mechanism 42, 43, with complementary plank protrusion geometry as one piece or multiple. This enables the force applied by a fastener or cam lock to linearly couple the intermediate block via a clamp mechanism to the protrusion surfaces of the plank, thereby securing the intermediate block's relative position along the length of the plank.

To provide for precise, repeatable and deterministic positioning of the intermediate block with respect to the plank 50, a protruding feature 44 (either on the plank or the intermediate block 42) engages a cavity or channel(s) of the mating part to locate the two relative to each other. This limits the ability for the intermediate block to slide along the multiple alignment surfaces of the plank and allows for the intermediate block to be mounted perpendicular to the forward-aft axis of the plank. As a result, the intermediate block cannot slide forward and/or aft of the protruding surfaces of the plank and are part of the clamping mechanism.

In another instance of precise, repeatable and deterministic positioning of the intermediate block 42 with respect to the plank 50, a minimum of one orthogonal channel 58 intersects with the protrusions of the plank edges 52 where the clamping force generated fastener shaft(s) intersect the orthogonal channels 58 of the plank edges and through the parallel surfaces 52. As the fastener couples to the complementary clamping mechanism of the intermediate block 42, this limits the ability for the intermediate block to slide along the multiple alignment surfaces 52 of the plank, and allows for the intermediate block to be mounted perpendicular 72 b to the forward-aft axis 72 a of the plank.

A two-piece containment bracket 200 is integral to the arrow rest assembly where the top portion of the containment bracket is mounted to the coupler. The coupler has mechanical features 56 to prevent the bracket from rotating. A mechanical feature or fastener is used to enable installation or removal of the top portion of the two-piece containment bracket 200 a, 200 b. Additional attachment/coupling mechanisms are also enabled by interference geometries between the containment brackets and features of the coupler.

The clamping force generated by clamp member 41 and fasteners 54 a and 54 b is distributed equally in either direction of the axis defined by the fasteners. Two clamping forces are mostly centered about the clamping force device (e.g. threaded fastener 54 a, 54 b). The clamp remains in an orthogonal position relative to the axis of the force applying device (fasteners 54 a and 54 b). The force applied by the device is mostly equal, as applied to an angular planar surface of the polygon shaped mount 20 attached to the bow riser 16, and of the integral angular planar surface F1, F2, F3 of the coupler. The mostly parallel and equal forces F2 and F3 are applied to each angular planar surface, and when combined, equal the force applied to the opposite integral angular planar surface of the polygon shaped mount attached to the bow riser. The fourth force F4 is orthogonal to the axis of the force device 54 a and 54 b and presses the coupler protrusion 82 into the geometrically shaped mount 20 receiving feature 26 for a friction or interference fit.

The mechanical coupling for linear forward and aft movement between two components (coupler 40 and intermediate block 42) of an arrow rest involves multiple surfaces 52 that are collinear where the mating surfaces are parallel. The design disclosed herein relies on multiple parallel surfaces that are greater than or equal to 90 degrees relative to each other (e.g., a Picatinny rail system).

The relative position between the intermediate block 42 and the rest coupler 40 is controlled by a ball-detent feature 110, where the ball 108, spring 106 and spring compression device 106 are vertically housed in the rest coupler. The intermediate block 42 has a series of linear detent depressions 110 that are in-line with the ball. As the two components move relative to each other, as guided by the 90 degree co-linear surfaces 52 from one detent feature to the other, the ball is forced up against the spring and then is forced back down by the spring into the next detent feature. This allows for discrete and repeatable positioning for the optimum location.

In an example, the intermediate block 42 has a dovetail shape 74 a that is orthogonal 72 b to the forward-aft axis 72 a of the plank 50. The dovetail shape 74 a allows for interchangeability of the intermediate block as coupled to the carrier 70 b where the carrier includes the accessory. In another example, the accessory 78 can be separate. This interchangeability allows for the ability to reconfigure the arrow rest assembly to optimize arrow position by exchanging the intermediate block coupled to the accessory 45 to accommodate the difference of arrow characteristics (e.g., diameter, spine or stiffness, length) on the same bow system 10. In all instances of the intermediate block, the microtune feature couples the block to the accessory, adjusting one relative to the other in a co-linear lateral orientation. The accessory is attached via a fastener through opening 60 where the complementary planar surfaces interface together through the clamping force of the threaded fastener through feature 60.

The ability to move the arrow rest linearly in the vertical, horizontal or forward/aft axes is key to the long multiple geometric shaped interface (e.g., dovetail, Picatinny, hexagon, square, etc.) for tuning the final position of the arrow rest assembly, and includes multiple co-linear surfaces. To do this, a feature and function known as “microtune” relates to a mechanism that couples two of the arrow rest components (e.g., polygon shaped mount and coupler, coupler and intermediate block, intermediate block and accessory, etc.) as they move linearly relative to each other. There are many instantiations of these mechanisms. In the most common application, the microtune coupling peg 82 fits into a complementary shaped feature 26 (e.g., circle, ogive, polygon) of the mating component 20. The combination of the axial threaded drive mechanism coupled to the peg and the tolerance of the peg fitted in the receiving component creates “play” in the mechanism. This is experienced when reversing the rotation of the axial threaded drive mechanism 80, as the coupled components do not move immediately (e.g., backdrive) relative to one another.

To minimize the “play” in these types of mechanisms, eliminating both the mating thread tolerance between the axial drive 80 and the microtune peg 82, and the microtune peg 82 to the coupling feature 26 in the mount 20 or bow riser 87 is disclosed. Implementing a slot 86 in the threaded hole end 83 of the peg 82 allows the resulting tabs to be slightly non-parallel, causing a binding force on the axial threaded drive mechanism 80 and eliminating the “play” of reversing the direction of the axial threaded drive 80.

On the opposite end of the microtune peg 82, eliminating the gap between the shape of the peg 82 and the coupling feature 26 is achieved by having small protruding features 84 from the outer surface of the peg 82, which effectively increases the effective circumference of the peg 84. When mated to the complimentary shape (e.g., blind hole 26 in the polygon shaped mount) of the mating arrow rest (e.g., the polygon shaped mount) the protruding features 84 yield by the mating force applied by fasteners 54 a and 54 b, resulting in an interference fit between the two mating parts. In an example, this is achieved by knurling, adding splines to the end of the microtune peg, or an additional/separate component (over-sleeve, adhesive, etc.).

The combination of the aforementioned microtune feature and a coupler clamp interface requires the clamp to be separate components of the arrow rest assembly, much like existing Picatinny rail systems. However, this interface is unique compared to a conventional Picatinny rail system in that the microtune peg couples the polygon shaped mount or channels integral to the bow riser and coupler for microtune linear adjustments. To couple the two elements together, the peg requires features to accommodate the rotational angle of the assembly geometry. To enable the coupling of the two elements, the base of the peg has to be significantly smaller than the diameter of the peg, yet provides an interference fit as described previously. This feature of the peg can be linear (e.g., chamfer, wedge, plane intersecting chamfer 85) or round (e.g., conic, round, spherical).

This microtune-ability and associated coupler and peg apply to the adjustments for lateral, vertical and forward and aft movement of the arrow rest relative to the bow riser. It is noted that the forward and aft implementation are not shown but are well within the understanding of those having ordinary skill in the art after becoming familiar with the teachings herein.

To secure the T-shaped coupler 40 to the Intermediate block 42, one or more mating co-linear surfaces 52 between the two components are forced together via a threaded fastener where the applied force between the two components cannot be overcome. The design shown in the figures represents one of several approaches for achieving this condition.

To secure the rest coupler 40 to the mount 20 relative to each other, one or more mating co-linear surfaces between the two components are forced together via a threaded fastener 52 a and 52 b, where the applied force between the two components cannot be overcome. The mating force generated by the threaded fastener yields the protruding features 84 of the microtune peg 82, resulting in an interference fit between the two mating features of each part. The design shown in the figures represents one of several approaches for achieving this condition.

A fastener provides the locking force between the two components. The locking force that secures the intermediate block in the specific position is generated in one of several ways, such as a pinching force or the clamping force previously describe (e.g., Picatinny).

The intermediate block 42 contains a protrusion 44 that engages a complementary feature 58 that is wider than the protrusion, enabling the accessory to move laterally, limited by the interference of the intermediate block protrusion and the slot of the accessory.

The accessory has all the features for a limb actuated configured arrow rest. These include a torsion spring that transfers torque between the housing coupled through the spring to the shaft 120. Attached to the shaft 126 is the compound angled arrow launcher 134. The shaft 120 rotates to lift the launcher, thereby lifting the arrow into the launch position. At one end of the shaft 120 is a polygon shape 122 (e.g., octagon, hexagon, semi-circle, etc.) to which a lever arm 93 with the same geometric shape is coupled with a clamping force administered by a threaded fastener (not shown). Attached to the lever arm 93 is the cord 94 that provides the mechanism that translates the force of the limb to the lever arm 93, thereby rotating the shaft 120 and arrow launcher 134 down and out of the way of the launched arrow.

The lever arm 93 is a two piece design that captures the cord 94 with a clamping force applied by a threaded fastener 96 to the clamp 95. The clamp 95 slides over a protrusion 97 of the lever arm 93. This allows the clamp 95 to slide along the protrusion 97 axis and applies the clamping force where the surface of the clamp and the surface of the lever arm 93 are parallel. The asymmetric feature(s) of the clamp and complementary feature of the lever arm 93 prevent the clamp 95 from rotating as the clamping force is applied. This allows for easy and quick adjustment of the cord to optimize the length. This feature on the lever arm 93 eliminates the need for a conventional cord clamp 99 that is independent of the lever arm 93 that is used for this adjustment or the need for a quick cord length adjustment device.

An arrow rest that has a rotating shaft 120 requires the ability to position the launcher coupled to the rotating shaft relative to an optimum arrow position related to the geometric features of the bow system. Repeatability is paramount for accuracy in that that rotation position has to be set, stable and known. The design disclosed herein makes use of compound lateral features 124 as part of the rotating shaft that provide a contact surface 124 for a physical stop 120 a and 120 b and known angular offset relative to the receiving feature of the shaft 120 and arrow launcher 134. These compound lateral surfaces 124 on the rotating shaft and the vertical positioning mechanisms 120 a and 120 b work together to position the shaft 120 in angular space for both the UP and DOWN positions. The ability to adjust these positions enables fine tunability for eliminating interference with the arrow and its steering devices, and to optimize the launcher angle for accuracy. In the body of the rest there are vertically adjustable mechanisms (e.g., headless screws 120 a and 120 b) for changing the location of where the horizontal rotating shaft feature 124 intersects with the vertical adjustment mechanism. As the vertical adjustment mechanism changes position, the contact/interference position 140 and 142 between these two components changes in the rotational domain. To ensure the vertical adjustment mechanism does not move for repeatability and accuracy, a horizontal locking mechanism (e.g., set screw, not shown) imparts a locking force against the vertical mechanism. Access to the horizontal locking device is made through the components of the arrow rest assembly (e.g., body and spring knob 129).

In addition to this approach, these vertical position mechanisms 120 a and 120 b are held in place by spherical locking devices 128 a and 128 b that are malleable. When the mechanism intersects the locking spheres 120 a and 120 b, the spheres yield in the shape of the vertical mechanisms, thereby creating a resistive force which prevents the vertical mechanism from changing position or becoming loose.

A common practice for identifying the launcher angle rotational position includes scribe or etchings/laser marks that are applied to the shaft 120 and the accessory 45. In some cases the geometry of the arrow rest components (e.g., shaft, body, and intermediate block) prevent these markings from being realized. A separate rotational angle positioning device enables the angular position of the rotating shaft and coupled arrow launcher to be set and known. The positioning device 150 translates arrow rest component internal and/or external geometry features (e.g., surface 156, edges, corners, holes, curves 154, circles, polygon shapes) to shaft angular position. To translate arrow rest component features through the angle indicator device, the rotating shaft includes a reference mark 158, which in an example is a vertical line that is normal to the launcher mounting surface when in the DOWN or zero degree position.

An example mounting bracket assembly may include, but is not limited to, a vertical dovetail bracket 20 and a side mount bracket 37. This attaches to the side of the bow riser 16 via the Berger hole 17, which is an AMO standard mount/interface.

The L-shaped bracket 37 is unique in its ability to locate the polygon shaped bracket 20 laterally to position the rest assembly at discrete lateral intervals 31, 32 and 33. It is critical to locate the arrow rest assembly and the arrow rest launcher at the centershot of the bow systems, which is typically about 13/16 inch to about ¾ inch from the inside vertical surface of the bow riser. The reason for this implementation is that bracket assembly references the arrow rest assembly to the outside vertical surface of the bow riser, unlike the polygon shaped mount 20 being attached directly to the aft surface 18 of the bow riser 16. Bow risers vary in thickness between about 0.50 and about 1.0 inches. The ability to position the vertical dovetail mount laterally fully or at least partially behind the bow riser enables the arrow rest assembly (e.g., center of the arrow rest launcher) to be positioned at or very near the center shot of the bow system. By doing so, the additional lateral adjustment can be made by the arrow rest to micro-tune the final position for the optimum centershot location.

It is critical to have the vertical polygon shaped mount 20 positioned vertically to enable the arrow rest assembly to be adjusted for the optimum vertical position. The vertical axis of the geometrically shaped mount 20 is defined by the two mounting holes 24 of the riser to which the mount 20 is attached and the vertical plane is defined to intersect with the target surface plane. This plane is substantially parallel to the inward (e.g., left, aft looking forward) or outward (e.g., right, aft looking forward) vertical surfaces of the bow riser 16 main grip assembly. If the mount 20 vertical plane is not substantially parallel to the bow riser inward and outward riser vertical surfaces, then as the rest assembly moves up and down, the rest assembly moves left-to-right or vice versa. The mounting bracket assembly 30 is a two-piece design where the mating features of the vertical polygon shaped mount 20 and side mount bracket align the polygon shaped mount substantially parallel to the inward or outward vertical surfaces of the bow riser's main grip assembly. The receiving and complementary mating features 35 a and 35 b between the side mount bracket 30 and the polygon shaped mount 20 alignment features 25 a and 25 b allow for the vertical translation, while simultaneously allowing for the differences in the bow riser thickness for optimum center shot location of the arrow rest.

It will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art after becoming familiar with the teachings herein, that there are additional embodiments that are the reverse orientation or configuration as disclosed herein. By way of example, the mechanism with coupling protrusion 82 could be embodied on the geometrically shaped mount 20 with the movable protrusion 82 being pressed into the coupler 40 for instance as one example.

The examples shown and described herein disclose an implementation of an L-shaped mounting bracket 37. It is noted that other implementations may include a straight mounting bracket (e.g., not L-shaped) with aligning features.

The examples shown and described herein disclose the L-shaped brackets 37 with through holes 36 and the threaded receiving interface being implemented in the dovetail bracket. It is noted that other implementations may include the reverse orientation where the through hole for the fastener is implemented in the polygon shaped mount 20 and the threaded receiving interface is implemented in the mounting bracket 30 (L-shape or straight), where the through hole 24 has a chamfer feature to receive a flathead screw to center the dovetail bracket to the threaded hole, thereby vertically aligning the dovetail mount substantially vertical to the bow riser 16 vertical inward and outward surfaces.

In an example, a substantially T-shaped mount has a base and a plank member that is perpendicular to the base with an integral microtune coupling feature to the polygon shaped mount. The base has a parallel clamping system made up of two pieces. The clamping system shape is complementary to the polygon shaped mount that enables the T-shape coupler to mount and move relative to the polygon shaped mount. The polygon shaped mount is attached to any side of a weapon (e.g., archery bow handle, firearm). The two-piece clamp design enables the mounting of the T-shaped mount in conjunction with the microtune feature. The microtune feature has an integral drive mechanism where an element of the microtune drive feature has a protrusion (e.g., a peg) that couples the T-shaped coupler to the polygon shaped mount. The microtune drive features allow small incremental relative position changes between the two members. The coupling protrusion has a feature that enables the T-shaped mount to be coupled to the polygon shaped mount. Unlike other approaches this design allows the T-shaped mount to be rotated (e.g., angle lambda shown in FIG. 28 ), into position, which requires the coupling protrusion or peg to be smaller or chamfered at the engagement end of the peg. By doing so, the T-shaped coupler with two-piece clamp and integral microtune mechanism with protrusion does not have to be disassembled or dismantled to be coupled to the receiving geometrically shaped mount 20.

In another example, an intermediate block is adaptable to the T-shaped coupler by a clamp mechanism. The intermediate block has an integral protrusion feature (e.g., boss, shoulder, etc.) that couples to a complementary feature of the T-shaped coupler and prevents the intermediate block from slidably changing position along the plank axis of the T-shaped coupler. The intermediate block may include an integral accessory. The intermediate block enables the coupling of an accessory where an integral extrusion boss feature of the intermediate block limits the lateral travel. The relative lateral position between the intermediate block and accessory are secured by a fastener.

In another example, a two-piece intermediate block allows the coupled accessory to be interchanged without changing the position of the portion of the intermediate block securing the plank portion of the T-shaped coupler. This allows for the precise and repeatable interchangeability of the accessory.

In another example, a two piece lever arm allows for easy cord length adjustment, where the cord is secured by a non-binding clamping for applied between a non-rotating member. The boss feature eliminates the fraying of the cord, which extends its useful life.

In another example, a two piece bracket allows for the lateral positioning of a polygon shaped mounting bracket. The polygon shaped mounting bracket has several vertical surfaces to receive a clamping mechanism associated with an accessory assembly.

It is noted that the examples shown and described are provided for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting. Still other examples are also contemplated. 

1. An arrow rest device comprising: a mounting bracket for attachment to a bow riser; a geometrically shaped surface of the mounting bracket; a coupler having a mating attachment surface for connecting with the geometrically shaped surface of the mounting bracket; an accessory for attachment to the coupler; an opening formed in the accessory; and a shaft received through the opening formed in the accessory, the shaft rotatable in the opening formed in the accessory, the shaft having a first end to accommodate an arrow launcher, and the shaft having a second end to attach to a cord.
 2. The arrow rest device of claim 1, further comprising a cord accessory attached to the shaft, wherein the cord is attached to the shaft via the cord accessory.
 3. The arrow rest device of claim 2, wherein the shaft has a portion with a geometric shape, and the cord accessory has a portion with a corresponding geometric shape, wherein the geometric shape of the shaft fits together with the corresponding geometric shape of the cord accessory.
 4. The arrow rest device of claim 3, wherein the geometric shape of the shaft and the corresponding geometric shape of the cord accessory include at least one flat surface to cause the cord accessory to move with the shaft.
 5. The arrow rest device of claim 3, wherein the geometric shape of the shaft and the corresponding geometric shape of the cord accessory include at least one flat surface to prevent the cord accessory from rotating on the shaft.
 6. The arrow rest device of claim 5, wherein the geometric shape of the shaft and the corresponding geometric shape of the cord accessory have at least two flat sides.
 7. The arrow rest device of claim 6, wherein the geometric shape of the shaft and the corresponding geometric shape of the cord accessory are polygon shapes.
 8. The arrow rest device of claim 6, wherein the cord accessory is re-indexed by selecting a side of the geometric shape.
 9. The arrow rest device of claim 5, wherein the geometric shape of the shaft and the corresponding geometric shape of the cord accessory clamp together.
 10. The arrow rest device of claim 5, wherein the geometric shape of the shaft and the corresponding geometric shape of the cord accessory are splines.
 11. The arrow rest device of claim 2, wherein the cord accessory has a lever arm assembly having a lever arm body, a looped cord, a lever arm clamp, and a clamp fastener.
 12. The arrow rest device of claim 11, wherein the lever arm has a protrusion formed thereon, and the lever arm clamp slides along an axis of the protrusion.
 13. The arrow rest device of claim 12, wherein the cord winds at least part way around the protrusion.
 14. The arrow rest device of claim 12, wherein the protrusion is threaded to receive a fastener through an opening in the lever arm clamp.
 15. The arrow rest device of claim 14, wherein the lever arm clamp applies a clamping force when a surface of the lever arm clamp and a surface of the lever arm body are parallel to one another.
 16. The arrow rest device of claim 15, wherein the clamping force is applied to the cord between the lever arm clamp and the lever arm body.
 17. The arrow rest device of claim 15, wherein the clamping force is applied to the cord via the fastener.
 18. An arrow rest device comprising: a mounting bracket for attachment to a bow riser; a geometrically shaped surface of the mounting bracket; a coupler having a mating attachment surface for connecting with the geometrically shaped surface of the mounting bracket; an accessory for attachment to the coupler; an opening formed in the accessory; and a shaft received through the opening formed in the accessory, the shaft rotatable in the opening formed in the accessory, the shaft having a first end to accommodate an arrow launcher, and the shaft having a second end to attach to a cord; wherein the second end of the shaft includes a cord clamping accessory.
 19. The arrow rest device of claim 18, wherein the cord clamping accessory compresses the cord between two mostly parallel surfaces that are independent of the force applying fastener.
 20. An arrow rest device comprising; a mounting bracket with a first portion for attachment to any side of a bow riser; a mounting bracket with a second portion with geometric shape to receive a coupler; a coupler with complimentary geometric shape to mount to the mounting bracket second portion; an accessory for attachment to the coupler; an opening formed in the accessory; and a shaft received through the opening formed in the accessory, the shaft freely rotatable in the opening formed in the accessory, the shaft having a first end to accommodate an arrow support device, and the shaft having a second end with a clamping lever arm; wherein the clamping lever arm comprises a cord clamping accessory; wherein the cord clamping accessory comprises parallel clamping surfaces; wherein the clamping surfaces are brought toward each other via a fastener orthogonal to the clamping surfaces. 